The Shepherd of Hermas, Chapter 9 summary
Chapter 9 of 26 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 9, an unnamed instructor commands purity and explains how spouses must respond to adultery, repentance, and death. He describes a single opportunity for repentance after the holy calling, distinguishes genuine change from careless repeated sin, and assures the questioning narrator that obedience brings forgiveness and life.
What happens
- The instructor forbids sexual desire outside marriage and warns that sinful thoughts bring guilt.
- He requires separation from an unrepentant adulterous spouse, forbids remarriage, and commands acceptance when the spouse repents.
- He describes repentance as recognizing wrongdoing, abandoning evil, doing good, and humbling oneself.
- He explains that the Lord grants one opportunity for repentance because human weakness and the devil’s schemes threaten believers.
- The narrator expresses renewed hope, and the instructor permits remarriage after a spouse dies while praising remaining single.
- The instructor promises forgiveness to those who obey his commands and maintain purity.
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In this chapter
The key line
“Preserve purity and holiness, therefore, and you shall live to God.”The instructor
This command joins the discussion of marriage to the broader demand for a changed life. It makes purity central to the promise of life.
Quick check
What does the instructor say about marrying after a spouse dies?
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